The Swing is a great book written by Emily Hanlon about Emily, a young deaf girl, and Danny, a misunderstood youth. The book takes place on the country side in the summer somewhere in middle America. Trying to escape the individual challenges of their life they retreat to a swing that holds many good memories for both of them. Throughout the book the two feud over the swing until they get themselves into a mess and a mix up that the whole town becomes involved in. Which will require them to come together.

This book happens to be a great read for upper-elementary to junior high. I remember reading this book in 5th grade and loving it. I have read it over many times since then.

I would suggest asking children to discuss their personal sanctuaries with class. You could ask them where do they go to be alone and why. I would also take the first part of the book and have them choose which character they feel deserves the swing the most and why? Have them write a journal entry through the eyes of each their favorite characters.